By listening to a composition from each of what are labeled as the four major eras of music, the Baroque, Classical, Romantic and Contemporary, one can hear distinguishing differences between the eras. Despite the fact that each representational sample of each era was no longer than ten minutes, there are still very prominent differentiating qualities to each era.
Given that the Baroque Era was the earliest period of the orchestra and the time when it was first …show more content…
Today’s music seems almost completely alien to its birthplace in the Baroque times. By now, the harpsichord is all but completely forgotten and the music is much more experimental. One might expect to hear Bach’s or Haydn’s masterpieces at a tea party or ball, but having Aaron Copland’s Suite from Billy The Kid playing might come off as a bit absurd. While the earliest two eras express what seems mostly like raw and deep emotions, the latter two eras tell more of a story. It’s true that many orchestras and pieces are written to be used as music for movies and plays. After all, motion pictures would have little impact if it weren’t for the music that establishes the mood and atmosphere. The instruments don’t seem quite as communicative with each other as before, but they do seem to feature many solos. Of course, the orchestra does maintain a flow that appeals to the listener. The Contemporary music offers the most variety out of the